What Makes Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar Stand Out?
The Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar is an innovative accessory designed to enhance the functionality of the Strike Industries MOD2 Stock. It transforms a minimalist carbine stock into a more robust, traditional crane-style stock while providing onboard storage for essential items. This seemingly simple addition offers a clever solution for shooters looking to maximize the utility of their AR-15 platform, blending practicality with a sleek aesthetic.
I’ve always sought ways to streamline my gear and consolidate essential items on my rifle, eliminating the need for extra pouches or cumbersome attachments. I wanted a solution that integrated seamlessly with my existing setup and didn’t compromise the rifle’s balance or handling. The promise of onboard battery storage and a more substantial stock profile drew me to the Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar.
Upon unboxing, the Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar impressed me with its solid feel and clean lines. The billet aluminum construction feels substantial, and the CNC machining provides a precise, high-quality finish. It weighs 4.06 oz, adding noticeable weight to the rear of the rifle but not so much as to be unwieldy.
Compared to a standard crane stock or other aftermarket storage solutions, the MOD2 Stock Storage Bar offers a unique blend of minimalist design and added functionality. Many other options are bulky and detract from the rifle’s overall aesthetic. This option offers a cleaner, more integrated solution.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the design seemed promising, I was eager to see how it performed in real-world shooting scenarios and whether the storage compartment would be truly practical. I was excited by the potential, but prepared for the possibility of compromises in weight distribution or ergonomics.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar primarily at my local shooting range, focusing on dynamic drills and target transitions. The temperature hovered around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze, providing ideal shooting conditions. The installation process was easy, and the bar attached securely to my MOD2 stock without any wobble or play.
The added weight at the rear of the rifle initially felt different but quickly became comfortable, actually improving the overall balance during rapid firing sequences. Accessing the battery storage compartment was straightforward, even while wearing gloves. The included foam and rubber spacers kept the batteries secure and prevented any unwanted rattling.
The only initial issue I encountered was a slight tightness when screwing on the rear cap of the storage bar, but this loosened up with use. I was pleased with how seamlessly it integrated with the rifle, adding both functionality and a more substantial feel to the stock.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my AR-15. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the finish has held up well despite exposure to various weather conditions and rough handling. The aluminum construction is robust and shows no signs of bending or cracking.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. I periodically check the O-ring seal on the storage compartment to ensure it remains properly lubricated and watertight. The bar has proven far more durable than some plastic storage solutions I’ve used in the past, which often cracked or became brittle over time.
Compared to my previous setup, which involved carrying spare batteries in a separate pouch, the MOD2 Stock Storage Bar is a game-changer. It’s far more convenient to have essential items readily accessible on the rifle itself, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios or during tactical training exercises. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both functionality and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar
Specifications
The Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar is constructed from CNC-machined billet aluminum for enhanced durability and features a black finish. It weighs 4.06 oz and has a length of 5.91 inches, a width of 0.89 inches, and a height of 1.96 inches. These dimensions add a noticeable, but manageable, increase in size to the rifle’s stock.
The internal storage compartment is designed to accommodate CR123A, 18650, 18350, AA, and AAA batteries. The bar also includes foam and rubber spacer pads to secure the batteries and prevent short-circuiting. The waterproof and weather-sealed main compartment protects batteries from the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar performs its primary function – providing onboard storage – exceptionally well. The ability to carry spare batteries directly on the rifle eliminates the need for separate pouches or cumbersome attachments. This streamlined approach significantly improves efficiency during reloads and reduces the risk of fumbling for batteries in critical situations.
One minor weakness is the non-weather-sealed compartment at the top of the bar, which is intended for small items like Zyn or other miscellaneous items. However, this is a minor drawback that is easily mitigated by using a small waterproof container for such items. Overall, the product far exceeds expectations, providing a reliable and convenient storage solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar features a sleek, minimalist design that seamlessly integrates with the Strike Industries MOD2 Stock. The CNC-machined billet aluminum construction feels substantial and provides a secure mounting platform. The added weight at the rear of the rifle improves overall balance and reduces muzzle rise during rapid firing.
The installation process is straightforward and requires no specialized tools, making it easy to install and remove as needed. The knurled rear cap provides a secure grip for easy access to the battery compartment, even while wearing gloves. The slightly extended cheek weld adds comfort and stability when sighting.
Durability & Maintenance
The Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar’s aluminum construction ensures excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear. The black finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, maintaining a clean appearance even after extensive use. This material choice offers a long service life, even under demanding conditions.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. The O-ring seal on the storage compartment should be periodically checked and lubricated to ensure a watertight seal. This easy maintenance ensures the bar will remain functional for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar comes with foam and rubber spacer pads to secure the batteries inside the storage compartment. While there are no direct customization options for the bar itself, it is compatible with any Strike Industries MOD2 Stock. This allows users to customize their rifle with different stock colors or configurations while still utilizing the storage bar.
The bar is also compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories, such as slings, optics, and grips. This compatibility makes it easy to integrate the MOD2 Stock Storage Bar into an existing rifle setup without any compatibility issues. The ease of integration makes it a seamless addition to a personalized rifle configuration.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar
Pros
- Provides convenient onboard storage for batteries and small essential items.
- Enhances the functionality and aesthetic of the Strike Industries MOD2 Stock.
- Durable CNC-machined billet aluminum construction.
- Easy, toolless installation.
- Waterproof and weather-sealed main compartment.
Cons
- Non-weather-sealed compartment at the top.
- Adds weight to the rear of the rifle, which may not be preferable for all users.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar?
The Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement officers, and competitive shooters who need to carry spare batteries or small essential items directly on their rifle. It is also ideal for survivalists and preppers who want to consolidate gear and maximize efficiency in emergency situations. This is the accessory for anyone who values streamlined gear and rapid access to critical supplies.
Those who prioritize ultra-lightweight setups or prefer minimalist stocks without any added features should skip this product. It’s also not essential for casual shooters who don’t require onboard storage.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of batteries that are compatible with the storage compartment. Also, consider a small waterproof container for items stored in the non-weather-sealed compartment.
Conclusion on Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar
The Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar is a well-designed and functional accessory that enhances the utility of the Strike Industries MOD2 Stock. Its durable construction, convenient storage compartment, and easy installation make it a worthwhile addition to any AR-15 platform. It successfully bridges the gap between minimalist design and practical functionality.
At $51.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, thoughtful design, and added functionality. The convenience of having spare batteries readily accessible outweighs the cost for many users.
I would highly recommend the Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar to anyone looking to streamline their gear and improve the overall functionality of their AR-15. It’s a simple yet effective solution that provides a significant advantage in dynamic shooting scenarios and tactical training exercises. Invest in the Strike Industries MOD2 Stock Storage Bar today and experience the convenience of onboard storage!
